Austin Haunted Walking Tour
Meeting point
Moonshine Grill. 303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Duration
90 mins.
Start time
8pm various days
Tour Operator
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of the Texas Capital
Experience the dark side of "Keep Austin Weird" on the Austin Haunted Walking Tour. As the sun sets over Lady Bird Lake, the historic streets of downtown transform into a landscape of lingering spirits and unsolved mysteries. This haunted history tour is the city's original ghost walk, led by expert storytellers who avoid the "theatrics" of jump-scares to focus on the authentic, chilling stories that define Austin’s past.
From the tragic "Midnight Assassin" of 1885 to the ghostly brides of the grand hotels, this ghost tour offers a deep dive into the paranormal activity that haunts the 6th Street district and Congress Avenue. Whether you are a local or just searching for paranormal tours near the Driskill Hotel, this walk captures the haunted essence of Austin unlike any other. Discover why Austin is consistently ranked among the most haunted cities in America as you explore "Guy Town" and the shadows of the Texas State Capitol.
What to Expect
Your ghost walk begins on the front porch of the Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill, a building that is itself one of the oldest and most haunted structures in the city. Over 90 minutes, you will follow your guide through a 1.1-mile loop of the historic district.
- The Driskill Hotel: A cornerstone of the tour, you’ll step into the opulent lobby of the most haunted hotel in Texas. Hear the story of Jesse Driskill, whose cigar smoke is still smelled in the hallways, and the giggling child who met a tragic end on the grand staircase.
- The "Midnight Assassin": Learn the bone-chilling history of America's first serial killer, who terrorized the city years before Jack the Ripper appeared in London.
- 6th Street & Congress: Walk through the legendary entertainment district, stopping at sites like the Old Millett Opera House and the Paramount Theatre, where spirits of former performers are said to still linger in the wings.
Logistics & Gear: This is a rain-or-shine outdoor experience. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The tour is family-friendly but involves mature historical themes like murder and Victorian-era tragedies.
No on-site parking; Convention Center Garage (2nd & Brazos) is the best nearby option. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
Restrooms available at the meeting point restaurant; no stops during the 90-minute walk. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
aved city route; stroller-friendly, but manual wheelchair users should note historic curbs. (for more info contact tour operator)
Service animals welcome; standard pets not recommended due to hotel lobby entry.
Includes interior access to the historic Driskill Hotel (pending lobby availability). (for more info contact tour operator)
Family-friendly with spooky history; suitable for older children comfortable with ghost stories. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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FaQ's
what is a ghost tour
A ghost tour is a guided experience that explores haunted locations and shares stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and historical events. These tours often take place at night in historic towns, cemeteries, or old buildings, blending history with spine-tingling storytelling. Ghost tours offer a fun and immersive way to learn about a location’s past while enjoying a spooky adventure.
Why do people go on ghost tours?
People go on ghost tours to explore local history, hear chilling stories, and experience the thrill of the unknown. Ghost tours blend entertainment, folklore, and real historical events, making them popular with travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique nighttime adventure. They’re a fun way to discover hidden stories, learn about haunted locations, and enjoy a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Is a ghost tour scary?
A ghost tour can be spooky, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly scary. Most ghost tours focus on storytelling, history, and exploring haunted locations rather than jump scares or intense horror. The level of fear often depends on the setting, the guide, and your own comfort with eerie tales. They’re designed to be enjoyable for most people, including beginners who want a fun, slightly spooky experience.
What is ghost tourism
Ghost tourism, also known as spooky tourism, is a type of travel focused on visiting haunted locations, paranormal sites, and historic places with spooky stories. It combines history, folklore, and supernatural experiences, attracting travelers who enjoy ghost tours, haunted attractions, and eerie adventures. Ghost tourism offers a unique way to explore a destination’s culture while experiencing thrilling, memorable moments.
What to Expect on a Ghost Tour?
A ghost tour typically combines history, storytelling, and paranormal legends as you explore haunted locations, old towns, and places known for unexplained activity. Expect your guide to share true local stories, including tragic events, mysterious sightings, and eerie folklore tied to the area’s past. Many tours visit historic buildings, cemeteries, alleyways, and landmark sites after dark to heighten the atmosphere.
Most ghost tours are walking tours, so prepare for 60–90 minutes of light to moderate walking, sometimes on uneven ground or dimly lit streets. Some guides may use ghost-hunting tools—like EMF meters or spirit boxes—to demonstrate paranormal investigation techniques, giving you an interactive experience.
You can expect a mix of education, entertainment, and spooky fun, but not guaranteed scares or staged jump moments. The goal is to immerse you in the history, mystery, and unexplained stories that shape each location. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour offers a unique way to discover a city’s hidden past and explore its most haunted corners.
What to Bring on a Ghost Tour?
Preparing properly can make your ghost tour safer, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable. Here are the key items guests are recommended to bring to any ghost walk, haunted history tour, or paranormal investigation.
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven or historic streets
Weather-appropriate clothing: jacket, hoodie, or raincoat
Fully charged phone for photos, notes, or emergencies
Small torch/flashlight for dark areas
Helpful Extras:
Portable power bank for devices or ghost-hunting apps
Bottle of water to stay hydrated
Bug spray for outdoor or older locations
Small backpack or crossbody bag to keep hands free
Optional Paranormal Gear:
EMF detector for interactive ghost-hunting
Thermometer for detecting “cold spots”
Notebook & pen for logging encounters
Red-filtered flashlight to maintain night vision
Safety & Comfort:
Small snacks for longer or late-night tours
Personal medication if needed
Hand sanitizer or wipes for older buildings and high-touch areas